Outbound Collective logo

Pillar Point Bluff Loop

Moss Beach, California

4.7/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

1.84 miles

Elevation Gain

154 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Michael Gabbert

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean on this easy 1 ¼ hike. Pillar Point Bluff is located roughly 30 minutes driving from San Francisco.

Sitting on a 140 acre bluff top, the Pillar Point Bluffs are a simple, easy hike with breathtaking views throughout. The bluffs are 22 miles from San Francisco – a 30 minute drive depending on the traffic. There is a small 10 car or so parking lot off of Airport Blvd, but there are two additional trail head entrances in the Seal Cove neighborhood at Ocean Blvd & Bernal Ave. or Alvardo Ave & Bernal Ave.

Once on the trail, there are a myriad of different paths you can take. The trails twist and turn throughout the abundance of plants in which the trails are cut through. Overall, there is minimal elevation changes which make the hike quite easy for all ages.

Gracing you at almost every step of the hike is the Pacific Ocean to the West. To the south of the trail, and jetting into the Pacific, is the Pillar Point Air Force Tracking Station. With its domed, almost water tower-esqe looking structure amongst some large satellites, it’s nearly impossible to miss. Off from the point where the station sits , you’ll be able to see Mavericks surfing area about a ½ mile off the shore. Huge waves crest here and during the right time of the year are fascinating to behold.

The bluffs have about 1 ¼ of actual trails but foot trails off the beaten path can lead to additional length if you so choose. If you want to extend your adventure, you can either go north a ½ mile into the Cypress Tree Tunnels at Moss Beach or go just south of the bluffs a hike Maverick’s beach.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app
Download GPX File

Features

Photography
Running
Hiking
Bathrooms
Beach
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Groups
Scenic

Pillar Point Bluff Loop Reviews

I first fell in love with this hike four years ago on my first trip to California. I recently returned and was afraid I over exaggerated how much I loved it. Turns out I left loving it more.

Great spot to walk the dog on a weekend morning. Great even on a cool, foggy day. Great bird watching. I've also seen rabbits, dolphins and lots of seals.

An easy hike for kids. Beautiful picture opportunities!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Catch the Sunset at Maverick's Beach

Cypress Tree Tunnels at Moss Beach

Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

Paddle Half Moon Bay Jetty

McNee Ranch to Planet of the Apes

Montara Mountain North & Middle Peaks Loop